Winner in category Architecture
SALT WATER CLAY is a research and design project for the city of Esbjerg that explores the use of local clay soils as a sustainable building material. Based on extensive material studies (with Bauhaus Earth), research was conducted into how the excavated material from a rainwater retention basin can be further processed in a circular field factory, which initially produces clay bricks and is later converted into a community neighborhood center. The ensemble is complemented by a student residence hall as a hybrid construction made of clay bricks and reused wind turbine tower segments.
The “SALT WATER CLAY” research project proposes a holistic, regional approach to circular economic construction. It explores the potential of local clay across supply chains and life cycles, linking temporary infrastructure with permanent architecture. The field factory, producing bricks from excavated basin material, suggests a scalable model. A clear and compelling presentation reinforces its potential.
Official Jury Statement